Blood, Bone Marrow and Hematopoiesis Histology

A comprehensive set of flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture on Blood, Bone Marrow, and Hematopoiesis histology.

What is blood primarily composed of?

Connective tissue consisting of cells suspended in plasma.

What is the function of erythrocytes?

Transport oxygen to cells and remove carbon dioxide from cells.

What is the role of leukocytes?

Involved in the immune response and protecting the body from infection.

What are platelets also known as?

Thrombocytes, which aid in blood clotting.

Define hematopoiesis.

The process of blood cell production and maturation.

What are the main components of plasma?

Water, proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, and hormones.

What factor stimulates erythropoiesis?

Erythropoietin.

What is the function of neutrophils?

Phagocytosis of bacteria and first responders to sites of infection.

What condition is characterized by sickle-shaped red blood cells?

Sickle Cell Anemia.

Describe the structure and function of hemoglobin.

A protein that binds and transports oxygen and carbon dioxide in red blood cells.

What is the lifespan of erythrocytes?

Approximately 120 days.

How do monocytes differentiate?

They differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells.

What type of cells are lymphocytes?

A type of agranulated white blood cell involved in adaptive immunity.

What is the significance of reticulocytes in the bloodstream?

They are immature red blood cells, often elevated in cases of anemia.

What is the role of megakaryocytes?

They give rise to platelets through fragmentation.

What causes the development of thrombocytopenia?

A decrease in platelet count, which can be due to various factors including bone marrow disorders.

What defines granulopoiesis?

The process of developing granulocytes from their precursor cells.

What are the three types of granulocytes?

Neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

What is found in high concentration in the cytoplasm of eosinophils?

Eosinophilic granules.

What does the term 'agranular' refer to in leukocytes?

Leukocytes that do not have noticeable granules in their cytoplasm.

Define the term 'hematopoietic stem cell' (HSC).

A pluripotent stem cell that can differentiate into all types of blood cells.

How does bone marrow cellularity change with age?

The number of hematopoietic cells decreases with age leading to increased adipocytes.

What are the primary functions of basophils?

Involved in inflammatory responses and allergic reactions.